Integrative Medicine: A Combination of Traditional and Alternative Treatments

Treatments that differ from conventional — or Western — medicine are typically considered complementary or alternative treatment options. However, there is a healthcare approach that combines traditional and non-traditional options called integrative medicine. How do you know if this is the right choice for you? Dr. Justin Chang with Renown Medical Group – Integrative Medicine is here to tell us more.

How does Integrative Medicine differ from primary care?

Integrative Medicine combines traditional primary care with evidence-based therapies. Our providers consider best practices from around the world when determining the right care for you. In addition to modern Western Medicine practices, they prescribe supplemental therapies to encourage positive lifestyle changes and offer nutrition recommendations. This allows you to take a proactive approach in improving your health and prioritizing preventive care.

What type of therapies do you recommend to your patients?

Alternative therapies may include a healing tradition, such as acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine or yoga. Other therapies, such as diet and nutrition or meditation and mindfulness practices, address lifestyle changes. Integrative Medicine goes beyond treating symptoms to treating a person as a whole.

When I meet with a patient, I have the opportunity to learn what their goals are and what health concerns they have. Together, we then create a personalized care plan that draws from any conventional healthcare tools that are needed, as well as implementing these therapies. This approach allows us to provide a comprehensive mind-body Integrative Primary Care experience.

How would someone know if this type of healthcare is right for them?

Integrative Medicine is a patient-centered model. When someone joins an Integrative Medicine practice, they are making a commitment to be the champion of their own health and well-being.

Our model allows us more one-on-one time with patients, where we can have open, unhurried conversations about their healthcare options, lifestyle changes that will greatly improve their health and the therapies we recommend for them.

Once you select one of our Integrative Primary Care providers, you’ll sign a participation agreement that demonstrates your commitment to your health and wellness. In addition, you will pay a $44 per visit fee that is separate from your co-pay, co-insurance and deductible.

Renown Integrative Medicine | 775-982-8255

A sampling of the integrative therapies offered at Renown include the following:

Acupuncture

Mindful movement and chair yoga

Meditation

Food as medicine

As a patient of Integrative Primary Care, you will take an active role in developing your plan of care.Learn More